Sensei Pete Bailie is often found at the headquarters reception desk, welcoming members to the day’s course. He travels down from Bristol to do so, where he is teacher at the Bristol Redland Ki Aikido club. He has been teaching for 17 years, and was awarded his 7th last year.
Sensei Pete has made an art form of enjoying two things in life: tea and curry. He often volunteers members to make tea for the lesson intervals, and then ensures standards are met with kindness and precision. He is a master of the little details!
He also celebrated his 60th birthday last year by sitting down for 60 curries with 60 friends, and is widely respected as a reliable source for updates on the standards of Bristol curry houses.
When did you start Ki Aikido?
I started in 1992.
What made you want to try Ki Aikido?
I did karate, but it wasn’t lessening my aggression. My brother had mentioned Aikido and I went to a class. I found it amazing how you could be very relaxed, and very powerful. Also as I was an actor and I taught movement practice, Ki Aikido was very complementary to this.
What do you enjoy most about practice?
I always feel better after practice than before, and feel exhilarated and full of life.
How do you benefit from Ki Aikido off of the mat?
It reduces worry, stress and conflict in my life.
Describe Aikido in 3 words
Zesty, Fiesty, Hearty.
What is your favourite exercise and technique?
My favourite exercise is unraisable body and technique is Tenchinage.
What it the greatest lesson Aikido has taught you?
Right is might (not might is right).
What advice do you have for anyone wanting to try Ki Aikido?
Dive in and enjoy.
Pete Bailie
Bristol Redland Ki Aikido Club